About Iguanas in Florida

Florida is home to multiple invasive iguana species that have established breeding populations. While green iguanas are the most widespread, spiny-tailed iguanas are expanding in South Florida and pose unique threats to property and native wildlife.

Green iguanas (Iguana iguana) are large, herbivorous lizards native to Central and South America that have become an invasive species in Florida. While they may look harmless, these reptiles can grow up to 5-7 feet long and cause significant problems for property owners.

Originally introduced through the pet trade, released or escaped iguanas found Florida's warm climate ideal for their survival and reproduction. They are now established throughout South Florida, particularly in areas near canals, waterways, and residential neighborhoods.

Unlike native Florida wildlife, green iguanas have no natural predators in the state, allowing their populations to grow unchecked. This has led to increasing conflicts with homeowners, businesses, and infrastructure throughout affected areas.

Physical Characteristics:

• Adults typically 4-6 feet long, can reach up to 7 feet
• Bright green color when young, may become darker or brownish with age
• Long tail (often longer than their body)
• Prominent dewlap (throat fan) in males
• Row of spines down their back and tail
• Powerful claws for climbing
• Can weigh 15-20 pounds when fully grown

Behavior:

• Excellent climbers - often found in trees, on roofs, and walls
• Strong swimmers - commonly found near water sources
• Dig extensive burrows, particularly in canal banks and under structures
• Herbivorous - feed on leaves, flowers, and fruits
• Cold-blooded - become inactive or fall from trees during cold weather
• Diurnal - most active during daylight hours
• Can be aggressive when cornered or during breeding season

Black spiny-tailed iguanas (Ctenosaura similis) are expanding across South Florida and present different challenges than green iguanas. These lizards are more aggressive, omnivorous, and pose direct threats to native wildlife.

Physical Characteristics:

• Adults up to 4 feet long (smaller than green iguanas)
• Dark gray to black coloration
• Prominent spiny tail (source of their name)
• Stockier, more muscular build than green iguanas
• No large throat dewlap
• Banded tail pattern

Behavior & Diet:

• Significantly more aggressive than green iguanas when approached
• Omnivorous - prey on small animals, eggs, and hatchlings
• Similar burrowing behavior to green iguanas
• Often found in rocky areas and on seawalls
• Less tolerant of cold than green iguanas

Ecological Impact:

The omnivorous diet of black spiny-tailed iguanas makes them a more serious ecological threat than herbivorous green iguanas. They prey on:

• Gopher tortoise hatchlings (state-threatened species)
• Ground-nesting bird eggs and chicks
• Native lizards and small vertebrates
• Native plant species (also consume vegetation)

Beyond property damage, invasive iguanas pose significant threats to Florida's native wildlife—a dimension often overlooked by property owners focused on immediate damage concerns.

While it may be tempting to handle iguana problems yourself, professional removal offers significant advantages:

Safety:

Iguanas can be aggressive when cornered and their tails, claws, and teeth can cause injury. Professionals have the training and equipment to safely capture and remove them without harm to people or property.

Effective Solutions:

Professional removal specialists understand iguana behavior and habitat preferences. They can identify problem areas, implement effective removal strategies, and provide exclusion measures to prevent future infestations.

Legal Compliance:

Licensed professionals understand and follow Florida regulations regarding iguana removal and disposal. They ensure all activities are conducted legally and humanely.

Long-term Prevention:

Beyond just removing iguanas, professionals can assess your property for attractants, recommend habitat modifications, and install barriers to prevent re-infestation.

While professional removal is often necessary once iguanas are established, these tips can help make your property less attractive to iguanas: